There’s a reason two-toned cabinets have become so popular! They add visual interest to your kitchen and are a fantastic choice if you want to enhance your space. However, selecting the perfect two-tone color combination requires the right approach.
Guidelines for Selecting the Perfect Two-Tone Cabinet Colors
Even if you love two specific colors, they may not complement each other or look good on cabinets. Follow these tips to master the two-tone color trend:
Tip #1: Mix Bold and Neutral Colors
One reason many homeowners love the two-tone look is that it allows them to add a bold splash of color to the kitchen without overwhelming the space. To achieve this, consider painting your kitchen island a unique, vibrant color while keeping the rest of the cabinets neutral. No island? Paint your base cabinets a dark, rich, dramatic color and opt for a light, bright neutral for the upper cabinets. Just remember, when choosing a bold, eye-catching color, it should be paired with a more neutral hue.
Tip #2: Consider Balance
When painting your cabinets with two tones, it’s important to consider balance. To create a harmonious, calm space with the two-tone style, choose colors with different hues or shades of the same color. For instance, a deep, dramatic dark gray paired with a light, neutral gray works well.
Whatever colors you choose, ensure the lighter shade is on the upper cabinets and the darker shade on the base cabinets. The darker cabinets will anchor the space, creating a strong sense of balance.
Tip #3: Use Wood as One Tone
You can achieve the two-tone trend in your kitchen without necessarily painting your cabinets in two different colors. Instead, try staining some of your kitchen cabinets to enhance the natural beauty of the wood. Then, paint the remaining cabinets in a coordinating color. Wood tones serve as neutral elements, allowing you the freedom to choose a bold color that complements them well.
Tip #4: When In Doubt, Choose White
If you’re uncertain about which neutral color to pair with a bolder shade, consider opting for white or a variation of white. For example, if you choose a cool bold color like blue, pair it with a cool shade of white or light gray. If your bolder color leans towards warmer tones, opt for a creamier white. This approach helps to balance the vibrant cabinet color and creates a harmonious and inviting look in your kitchen.
Tip #5: Follow the 60-30-10 Rule
A helpful guideline for adding color to your kitchen is the 60-30-10 rule. This suggests using one dominant color for 60% of your cabinets, complemented by a neutral shade for 30%, or vice versa. The remaining 10% can be introduced as an accent color through elements like artwork, area rugs, floral arrangements, and window treatments.
Our Favorite Two-Tone Cabinet Combinations
At N-Hance of North Indianapolis Suburbs, we’ve assisted numerous homeowners in achieving their dream of two-toned cabinets. If you’re uncertain about which direction to take, here are some of our favorite combinations to inspire you.
White and Dark Gray or Black
Paint your lower kitchen cabinets in a deep gray or black shade, while opting for bright white upper cabinets. This creates a sleek and sophisticated appearance with a clean, crisp look. The beauty of this design is that you can incorporate any accent color you desire, and even change it up whenever you feel like it.
White and Blue
If black isn’t your preference, another trendy color combination with white is navy or cobalt blue. Opting for bold blue on the lower cabinets and white on the upper cabinets creates a striking and elegant appearance. Enhance the overall look with gold light fixtures and cabinet hardware for added elegance.
Blue and Brown
If you’re interested in showcasing the natural beauty of some of your kitchen cabinets with stain, consider pairing them with light blue cabinets for the rest of the kitchen. The blue will add vibrancy and energy to the space, while the hardwood cabinets will maintain warmth and grounding.
Blending Neutrals
Another approach is to select varying shades of a single neutral color, such as dark gray and lighter gray. This creates a timeless and inviting appearance that is visually captivating and adds depth to your kitchen.
Green and Gold
This kitchen cabinet paint color combination has gained popularity in recent years. You can paint your kitchen island or base cabinets a rich dark green. Contrast this with creamy colors on the upper cabinets, and add a touch of elegance with gold accents to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Other Kitchen Cabinet Color Combinations to Consider
- Dark green with hardwood cabinets
- Olive green and cream cabinets
- Plum and cream cabinets
- Orange and white cabinets
- Beige and black cabinets
Excited to Incorporate the Two-Tone Color Trend into Your Kitchen Cabinets?
At N-Hance of North Indianapolis Suburbs, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every step of your cabinet makeover journey. Whether you have a clear vision for your cabinet colors or need assistance with the decision-making process, our specialists are here to assist you. We’ll discuss options ranging from colors to finishing techniques, hardware choices, and even cabinet storage solutions.
If you’re unsure about colors, we can bring samples directly to your home, allowing you to see how they look in your kitchen firsthand. While we offer a palette of the most popular colors, we’re also ready to match any specific color you have in mind that’s not currently in our selection. Our goal is to ensure you achieve two-tone kitchen cabinets that you truly adore.
Ready to find out more or bring the two-tone color trend to your kitchen cabinets? Call N-Hance of North Indianapolis Suburbs at (317) 273-8500 to set up a FREE consultation and quote.